What are some tips for the care of orchids after flowering?

A:

Quick Answer

Care for orchids after they flower by cutting of the stalk at an angle just above the bottom leaf node and placing the plant at a north-facing window. Water it once a week until it starts to produce new growth, and then water it only once the soil starts to dry out.

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Plant an orchid not in soil, but in a mixture consisting of well-draining material such as bark chips, pebbles and treefern. Once the soil starts to dry out, water the plant from above, to mimic the rain it receives in its natural habitat once a week. Never allow the roots to sit in water as this can cause root rot and kill the plant. It's better to underwater rather than overwater the plant.

Place the orchid in a north-facing window so that it receives indirect light. It needs to be warm during the day and 10 degrees cooler at night, about 60 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant also requires at least 50 percent humidity. To increase humidity levels, use a humidifier, mist the leaves or place the pot on a tray containing web pebbles. Feed the plant once a week with a small, diluted amount of 20-10-20 fertilizer, and then substitute it for a 10-30-20 fertilizer when the orchid blooms to encourage growth.